Italy's Watchdog Slams Ski Pass Price Hikes as Totally Unreasonable

A leading Italian consumer association are sounding the alarm over what they describe as entirely unreasonable cost hikes for lift tickets this winter season, cautioning that alpine sports could become an exclusive privilege for affluent individuals.

Significant Cost Rises Throughout the Country

From the majestic Alps and stunning Dolomite mountains in the northern areas to the ski runs of Abruzzo, prices are set to rise by as much as 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to fresh research.

The popular Dolomiti Superski ticket, which grants access to all 12 resorts in the exclusive Dolomites, will now cost skiers €86 per day this season. In the popular Abruzzo resort, a daily ski pass is expected to reach €60, after experiencing significant overcrowding during the previous winter.

Seasonal Pass Costs and Supplementary Charges

Meanwhile, annual skiing tickets will vary between €755 per adult in Roccaraso to as much as €1,800 in the northern Aosta area.

The expense of hiring winter sports gear has also increased, along with lodging costs and restaurant prices throughout alpine destinations.

Watchdog Leader Points to Unreasonable Hikes

The consumer association president, heading the consumer protection group, emphasized that the cost rises—which operators blame on increased utility expenses, facility upkeep, and demand for better equipment—were entirely unreasonable and unacceptable.

"Both because Italian inflation rates are managed effectively and utility costs, which had raised operational costs for mountain facility managers in 2022, have returned to normal," he explained.

He added that prices have climbed to points where budget-conscious visitors are being forced to abandon their traditional settimana bianca, or winter vacation, completely.

Visitor Decrease and Broader Context

He noted a sharp decline in alpine visitors during the 2024-2025 season, with a million fewer domestic visitors visiting ski resorts compared to the prior season due to increasing expenses.

Despite these increases, Italy remains a cheaper option for skiing enthusiasts in western Europe compared to nearby Swiss resorts, France, and Austria.

International Event Background

The growing concern over winter sports expenses comes as the country prepares to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics between February 6 and 22. Italy's foreign minister, the foreign affairs official, recently stated that Italy had submitted a proposal to the United Nations calling for a "global truce" during the global competition.

"Through the Winter Games we must also send a peaceful communication and conversation... to halt conflicts during the Olympics," Tajani emphasized.